Drivers in Huntsville should always be on the lookout for anything, or anyone in the roadway that could lead to an accident. Some situations may call for more vigilance from drivers than others. Railroad crossings, blind corners and other places pose unique hazards that can likely be foreseen by the drivers simply due to their knowledge of their immediate surroundings.

The same can also be said of the area around the University of Alabama at Huntsville, where a driver can expect to encounter many pedestrians as students make their way to and from classes. Unfortunately, one driver today apparently failed to notice a female UAH student as she was crossing the street in front of the library.

Initial reports on the incident did not yet include information on the severity of the injuries or whether they may have been life threatening. But anytime a pedestrian is struck by a moving vehicle there is a potential for serious injuries. Even at slow speeds the force of a collision or being trapped under the vehicle can cause extensive trauma.

Often cases like this are the result of a distracted driver who took their eyes or at least their attention off the road for just a moment. Ironically, after the car struck the student and the driven had gotten out of their vehicle to check on her, a second car ran into the back of the first car. There is no indication yet whether the police have initiated an investigation into the pedestrian accident or whether charges may be filed.

Source: Channel 48 News, "Student hit by car in front of UAH library," Jan. 13, 2012